how do you make tartar sauce

You can make a simple, classic tartar sauce by mixing mayonnaise with chopped pickles or relish, a splash of lemon juice, and a bit of seasoning, then chilling it so the flavors blend.

Basic tartar sauce recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2–4 tablespoons dill pickle relish (or finely chopped dill pickles; sweet relish also works)
• 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1–2 tablespoons finely chopped onion or shallot (optional but tasty)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional extras: chopped fresh dill, minced capers, pinch of sugar, pinch of cayenne or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Add mayonnaise, relish (or pickles), lemon juice, and any optional ingredients to a small bowl.
2. Stir until everything is well combined and smooth.
3. Taste and adjust: more lemon for brightness, more pickles for tang, a pinch of sugar if it’s too sharp, salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes so the flavors meld before serving with fish, seafood cakes, or fries.

Quick 4‑ingredient shortcut

If you want the fastest version, mix the following and serve right away or after a short chill:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 2 teaspoons sweet pickle relish
• 1 teaspoon prepared yellow mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

That’s all you need for a quick, creamy, tangy tartar sauce at home.